16/06/2026
🛟The recent warm weather has seen more people heading to rivers, lakes, reservoirs and the coast to cool off. Tragically, several lives have been lost in UK waters in recent weeks and our thoughts are with the families affected.
🥶 Many people don’t realise that even on the hottest days, open water can be surprisingly cold. Cold water shock can affect anyone, regardless of age, fitness level or swimming ability.
🛟This Drowning Prevention Week, we’re encouraging everyone to stay safe around water and understand the risks before taking a dip.
❗️If you find yourself struggling:
- Float to Live
- Tilt your head back with your ears submerged.
- Relax and try to control your breathing.
- Move your hands gently to help you stay afloat.
- Once the effects of cold water shock have passed and your breathing is under control, call for help or swim to safety if you can.
⚠️ If you see someone else in trouble:
- Don’t enter the water to rescue them unless you are trained and equipped to do so.
Instead:
🚨 Call 999 immediately and ask for the Coastguard if at the coast, or Fire and Rescue Service if inland.
✅ Encourage them to Float to Live.
✅ Throw something that floats to them if available.
✅ Stay where you are and continue reassuring them until help arrives.
💧 Water can be a wonderful place to enjoy time with family and friends, but it deserves respect. A few moments spent thinking about water safety could save a life.
